Chapter 218

Evelyn lowered her lashes and murmured, "Okay."

After Sophia left, Evelyn was alone in the office. She picked up her phone and dialed Vincent Cruz.

"Mayor Cruz, how's the situation in Shili Village?"

"Miss Sullivan, the flood is under control. All villagers are safe."

"That's good. The fabric production can wait until the disaster is fully resolved."

"Thank you for your understanding."

The moment she hung up, her phone vibrated again. The screen flashed with "Ethan Sullivan." Her fingers trembled slightly.

"Hello?"

"Are you free for lunch?"

She bit her lower lip. "MY and Sullivan Group are quite far apart..."

"I can leave early."

"Mr. Sullivan, I haven't decided yet..."

A low chuckle came through the phone. "Just lunch. No pressure."

Her ears warmed. "Then... what do you want to eat?"

"I should be asking you that."

His amused tone made her heart skip. "I'm fine with anything."

"Sichuan cuisine?"

"You don't have to accommodate me. Let's pick somewhere neutral."

A brief silence. "Fine."

"I should get back to work."

After hanging up, she touched her flushed cheeks. The words on the documents blurred as her thoughts drifted away.

At noon sharp, her phone buzzed. Ethan had sent the restaurant address.

Evelyn reapplied her lipstick and nearly collided with Sophia at the door.

"Oh? Going out for lunch?"

"Yeah. Meeting someone."

"Who?" Sophia leaned in, grinning.

Evelyn stepped back hastily. "Forgot something. You go ahead."

Watching her friend flee, Sophia narrowed her eyes thoughtfully.

Evelyn lingered in the office for ten extra minutes before leaving. At the restaurant, Ethan had been waiting.

Her furtive glances made him frown.

"I haven't ordered yet." He pushed the menu toward her. "Relax. I booked the entire place."

Her shoulders finally relaxed as she focused on the menu.

Ethan's expression darkened.

"You don't want to be seen with me?"

"No..." She gripped the menu. "It's just... complicated to explain."

He fell silent. The air grew heavy.

"Are you angry?"

"No." He picked up his water glass, voice stiff.